"We created the Neighborhood Jazz Series five years ago and it has become one of the festival's signature events. This year we are delighted to present the series in five beautiful Atlanta area parks thanks to the support of Atlanta City Councilmembers. Cleta Winslow is hosting at Gordon-White Park on May 5; Joyce Sheperd will host at Perkerson Park on May 11; Felicia Moore is hosting at Grove Park on May 18 and Alex Wan will host at McClatchey Park on May 19; and Keisha Lance Bottoms will host at John A. White Park on June 8. Some of Atlanta's most exciting up and coming artists will be performing including J. Henry, Gabbie McGee, JFly and Lemonade Jones. All the events are free and open to the public. Join us in a park near you for an afternoon of great music, warm camaraderie and family fun."

This is the third year that Councilmember Keisha Lance Bottoms and her office have hosted a neighborhood jazz concert and she's thrilled to participate again. "These concerts are a great opportunity for residents to come out and enjoy entertainment right in their own community," says Bottoms. "Many of the acts we have had perform at our neighborhood concerts have gone on to perform on the Main Stage during the larger festival in Piedmont Park. This speaks to the caliber of talent that we have each year.

And if previous events are any indication, this year will be even bigger and better!"

"If you just listen to the news, there's a perception that everything is negative in our communities," comments Councilmember Joyce Sheperd. "But there are so many good things happening. I wanted to get involved with this event to bring our neighborhood together and share positive memories."

"I grew up listening to jazz and I love exposing our young people to the music and jazz culture," adds Sheperd. "These neighborhood events are very family-friendly so people bring their kids and grandkids. It gives me great pleasure to hear teenagers say this music is 'cool' and to see the joy on their faces when they are discovering something new."

For the second year Councilmember Felicia Moore is hosting an event in her neighborhood park. "Last year we received rave reviews so we jumped at the chance to have an event again this year," states Moore. "Bringing this event to the people in our community allows us all an opportunity to come together and enjoy fellowship with each other in a culturally stimulating environment. It's a great way for neighbors and friends to connect."

The 36th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival is presented by the City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs. Join us on Facebook at AtlantaJazzFestival , download our new mobile app for iPhone and Android, and visit the official web site at www.atlantafestivals.com for the latest schedules, news and information.